Botswana: The hidden cost of women's marital status and economic rights in Botswana

The article examines how marriage continues to carry hidden economic costs for women in Botswana, despite formal legal guarantees of equality. It shows that marital status still shapes women’s access to property, credit and long-term financial security, with married, divorced and widowed women facing distinct economic vulnerabilities. 

Drawing on research from international organisations, the story highlights persistent gaps in asset ownership, access to finance and control over household resources. It notes that women remain overrepresented in informal and low-income work, limiting wealth accumulation and increasing dependence within marriage. Customary inheritance practices, particularly in rural areas, continue to disadvantage widows despite progressive court rulings. 

The article argues that the gap between legal reform and lived economic reality has broader national consequences. Analysts warn that limiting women’s full economic participation undermines productivity, poverty reduction and inclusive growth, making enforcement of existing rights central to achieving gender equality and sustainable development in Botswana. 

LINK TO PUBLISHED STORY: 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17M9mmgNu9/ 

This article, first published by Weekend Post, is part of the Media Parity Capacity Building and republished as part of the programme series.